Articles tagged with Poultry
A new synthetic biopathway enables efficient conversion of agricultural waste into various useful products, including spandex and chicken feed. The process results in a 70% higher yield and is better for the environment than previous methods.
The 2016 AAAS/Subaru SB&F prizes recognize outstanding science writing and illustration for children and young adults. The winners include Sy Montgomery's 'The Octopus Scientists' and Beth Shapiro's 'How to Clone a Mammoth: The Science of De-Extinction.'
A UBC study found that rats can absorb disease agents from their environment and spread them, posing a significant health threat to both poultry and humans. The researchers discovered avian pathogenic E. coli in the feces of farm rats, with over one quarter carrying multidrug-resistant strains.
A research team led by Hong Li at the University of Delaware has found that adding alum to poultry litter can significantly reduce ammonia and greenhouse gas concentrations. This innovation helps control nutrient emissions, conserves energy, and improves animal welfare, making agriculture more sustainable.
Researchers found ectoparasites on 80% of backyard chicken flocks, with lice being the most common and abundant. The study highlights the need for parasite prevention measures in backyard chicken-keeping.
A study by University of California, Riverside scientists reveals that backyard chickens have a higher diversity of ectoparasites, including six species of lice, the northern fowl mite, scaly leg mite, and chicken red mite. This finding suggests that the benefits of backyard chicken keeping may come with an itchy price.
Kansas State University researchers developed a vaccine protecting against multiple US avian influenza strains, including H5N1, H5N2 and H5N8. The NDV-H5Nx vaccine can be administered through water or embryonated eggs, offering a potential solution for mass vaccination of poultry.
A new study identifies genetic influences on anxiety in chickens that may also apply to mice and humans. The research found that genes linked to anxiety in chickens were associated with similar behaviors in mice, while some were connected to schizophrenia or bipolar disorder in large human studies.
A £5.7 million grant from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) will support the development of cheap and effective vaccines for poultry. The project aims to reduce infections in humans and minimize antibiotics in the food chain, with potential applications for cattle, sheep, and goats.
A study found H7N9 virus transmission from a hospital patient to an unrelated individual, challenging common exposure assumptions. The live poultry market is considered the most probable source of infection for the original case.
Researchers analyzed blood samples of chickens from the same generation to reconstruct how mitochondrial DNA passed from mothers to daughters. The study found that evolution occurs much faster than previously believed, with a rate of change in mitochondrial genomes estimated at around 2 percent per million years.
A new study of chickens overturns the popular assumption that evolution is only visible over long time scales. The researchers found two mutations in the mitochondrial genomes of the birds in just 50 years, revealing a rate of evolution that is 15 times faster than previously believed.
A mathematical model of chicken walk patterns may help farmers predict and prevent the spread of disease in their flocks. By analyzing patterns of movement, researchers can identify high-risk areas and develop strategies to minimize losses.
Researchers found that mixtures of cereal rye and hairy vetch can effectively control weeds and conserve soil moisture. Adding poultry litter increased decomposition and nitrogen release when the cover crop contained at least 50% cereal rye.
A recent study published in Circulation found that a traditional Southern-style diet is associated with a higher risk of heart disease. Researchers analyzed data from over 17,000 adults and found that those who consumed foods conforming to the Southern dietary pattern had a 56% higher risk of heart disease compared to those who ate it ...
A new study published in PLOS Biology found that imperfect vaccines can promote the evolution of nastier viral strains, increasing the risk of severe illness among unvaccinated individuals. The research highlights the importance of perfect vaccines in preventing not only disease but also transmission.
Research confirms that certain vaccines can lead to the survival of more virulent virus strains, increasing risk to unvaccinated populations. This has significant implications for food-chain security and human health.
A study published in Scientific Reports reveals that roosters follow a systematic rule based on social ranking to determine the order of crowing. Dominant birds take priority to announce the break of dawn, while subordinate birds wait patiently for their turn.
A recent Cornell Food & Brand Lab study found that serving vegetables at dinner increases the perception of being a better cook and a more loving parent. Serving veggies even if not liked can make the meal tastier, according to lead author Brian Wansink.
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a DASH-style diet with lean, unprocessed pork as the primary protein source reduced blood pressure and had similar effects when chicken or fish was used instead. The study included 19 participants with elevated high blood pressure and demonstrated the versat...
Researchers developed vaccines for H5N1 and H7N9 avian influenza strains using a recombinant virus approach, protecting chickens against both strains. This method may lead to rapid vaccine development for emerging strains and new influenza vaccines for pigs, sheep, and other livestock.
Using disinfectant wipes after preparing poultry reduces the risk of Campylobacter food poisoning by up to 99.2%. The antibacterial solution left behind on surfaces continues to disinfect over time, protecting against bacterial transfer and illness.
A portable tool predicts avian flu outbreaks by analyzing chickens and detecting viral strains. The device uses gold nanoparticles and quantum dots for rapid detection in just two to three minutes.
Research found that 14 out of 17 popular pet food brands contained unspecified animal species, including cow, pig, and chicken DNA. The study highlights weaknesses in product labeling that could affect pets and their owners.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that the percentage of children eating fast food on a given day dropped from 38.8% to 32.6% between 2003-2004 and 2009-2010, respectively. Calorie intake from burger and chicken restaurants also decreased, while Mexican and sandwich restaurants remained constant.
A team of researchers from Michigan State University studied the feral chicken population on the Hawaiian island of Kauai to understand their genetic origins. The study found evidence of hybridization between ancient Red Junglefowl and domestic chickens, suggesting that the population may have originated from interbreeding.
The UC Davis project, part of the FAANG Initiative, focuses on functional genomics of chicken, cow, and pig genomes to better understand gene regulation and complex traits. This research aims to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability by identifying key genetic elements influencing animal development and behavior.
A study found that changes in the H9N2 flu virus in chickens may have contributed to the creation of the H7N9 avian virus, which has caused outbreaks and deaths since 2013. The research suggests tracking genetic diversity of H9N2 on poultry farms could provide an early warning of emerging viruses with pandemic potential.
A recent study by the University of Kent found that chickens and turkeys have undergone fewer gross genomic changes compared to their ancient avian ancestor, a feathered dinosaur. The research reveals that birds arrived at their incredible biodiversity through a complex process involving tiny microchromosomes.
A study found that sodium-reduced meat and poultry products contain significantly higher levels of potassium due to additives. This can pose a risk for patients with kidney disease who require low phosphorus and potassium diets.
A study found Campylobacter bacteria attach to surfaces and form biofilms when exposed to chicken 'juice'. Cleaning surfaces effectively can help reduce the incidence of Campylobacter, a leading cause of food poisoning in the UK. The research also aims to minimize infected chicken on supermarket shelves.
Zoos and aquariums are vulnerable to disasters, but experts say preparedness training and planning can minimize risks. The University of Illinois veterinarian Yvette Johnson-Walker brings emergency training to accredited institutions, focusing on scenarios like avian influenza and hurricane floodwaters.
Researchers found that chickens have a limited number of bitter taste receptors but can compensate with a wider tuning range. Frogs, on the other hand, have more receptors and a mix of broad and narrow tuning capabilities. This diversity may be an adaptation to their environment, which includes both land and water.
A study by Chapman University's Food Science Program has identified 20 commercial pet foods that were potentially mislabeled, containing undeclared meat species such as pork. The research focused on the presence of eight meat species in dog and cat food products, with chicken being the most common detected species.
Researchers discovered how hummingbirds detected sugar by analyzing their taste receptors, which expanded to respond to carbohydrates. The study revealed that a single mutation drove behavior changes in the birds.
A new study reveals that Millennials are eating tofu because it's convenient and filling, rather than for its nutritional value. The research found that highlighting the ease of cooking and taste can be a more effective way to convince others to try tofu.
In Switzerland, campylobacteriosis case numbers have increased, particularly around Christmas and New Year. A study found that consuming meat fondue increases the risk of infection by four times, while proper hygiene practices can reduce the risk by up to five.
Researchers discovered that foodborne pathogen Campylobacter jejuni can cause problems in chickens' gut and damage their feet and legs when they walk through contaminated excrement. The bacteria's impact varied among breeds, with one showing significant damage to the gut and developing diarrhea.
A study published in mBio found that Campylobacter jejuni, a foodborne pathogen, can cause disease in some breeds of chickens. The bacteria were previously thought to be harmless to birds.
Researchers mapped live poultry markets in China to predict H7N9 spread; dense clusters of markets facilitate emergence and transmission. Maps help target surveillance and contain outbreaks.
A study published by the American Heart Association found that eating moderate amounts of processed red meat increases the risk of incidence and death from heart failure in men. The study, which included over 37,000 men aged 45-79, found that those who consumed the most processed red meat had a 28% higher risk of heart failure compared...
A US-based study of 88,803 premenopausal women found a significant association between high red meat intake and increased breast cancer risk. Replacing red meat with a combination of legumes, poultry, nuts, and fish was linked to a lower risk of breast cancer.
A new Cornell study reveals that tofu lovers perceive it as a convenient and filling source of light protein. However, non-users had misconceptions about its cost and cooking difficulties. Correcting these misconceptions through price information, simple recipes, and 'cooks like chicken' messaging increased the likelihood of purchase.
Researchers developed antimicrobial edible films using pullulan and essential oils, which significantly inhibit bacterial pathogens in meat and poultry. The films provide immediate and sustained kill of bacteria, reducing the risk of foodborne illness.
A Cornell study published in Eating Behaviors found that children aged 6-10 who ate whole foods like drumsticks and apples were twice as likely to disobey adults and exhibit aggressive behavior compared to those eating cut-up foods. The researchers suggest cutting food can help reduce rowdy behavior at mealtime.
A study analyzing ancient chicken DNA found that traits like yellow skin only became widespread in the last 500 years, contradicting previous assumptions about domestication. Researchers compared DNA from 81 ancient chickens to those of modern chickens, revealing significant genetic differences.
Researchers have found a genetic connection between chickens and chili peppers, suggesting that the latter were domesticated around the same time as humans. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, used DNA analysis to reveal that yellow-skinned chickens became common only about 500 years ago.
A study found that cutting boards and gloves used in handling raw poultry can transmit ESBL-producing E. coli bacteria, highlighting the importance of hand hygiene. Researchers collected samples from hospital and private kitchens, finding higher contamination rates on hospital cutting boards and gloves.
Roy Curtiss, a pioneer in recombinant DNA era gene cloning and novel bacterial pathogenesis research, has made significant contributions to developing attenuated Salmonella-based vaccines. His work has improved human health through combating infectious diseases, particularly pneumonia, tuberculosis, and influenza.
The newly discovered Anzu wyliei was an omnivore that roamed the Dakotas with T. rex 66 million years ago and stood over 10 feet tall. The dinosaur's fossil discovery sheds light on a previously limited category of oviraptorosaur theropod dinosaurs.
Quail and chickens are likely sources of infection for the H7N9 influenza virus, according to a study published in the Journal of Virology. The research found that quail efficiently transmitted the virus, while other poultry species were resistant or did not become infected.
Researchers have identified genetic markers of original Polynesian chickens, tracing early movements and trading patterns across the Pacific. The study also found that these lineages survived on isolated Pacific islands despite European introduction.
A new study found that more than 80% of raw chicken used in hospitals was contaminated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing a significant risk to patients and staff. However, robust food safety measures taken by hospital kitchen staff were able to prevent the spread of these pathogens.
A team of researchers from Princeton University and Washington University in St. Louis has identified a new state of matter known as disordered hyperuniformity in the eyes of chickens. This arrangement of cells in the eye exhibits properties of both crystal and liquid states, allowing for unique optical properties
A Chinese woman died from a new bird flu virus H10N8 after visiting a live poultry market, with the virus showing genetic characteristics allowing it to replicate efficiently in humans. The H10N8 strain has been previously isolated but never reported in humans before.
Researchers analyzed pain response in chickens, discovering that heat stimulation activates TRPA1 receptors similar to cold-blooded animals. Methyl anthranilate, a repellent chemical for birds, also activates chicken TRPA1, highlighting its functional evolution and diversification among vertebrate species.
Researchers analyzed transaction data from 30 McDonald's restaurants to find that reducing the size of French fries decreased the calorie count in children's meals by 104 calories. Children mostly stuck with their original entrée choice, but opted for lower-calorie beverages like milk instead of soda.
A new study analyzed the diet and digestion of cows, chickens, and pigs to determine their impact on climate change. The research found that animal diets vary greatly depending on the region, with some animals requiring more food to produce a kilo of protein than others.
Researchers found that pecan shell extracts significantly inhibited bacterial growth of Listeria, reducing levels by 100 times and spoilage organisms by over 1,000 times. This natural alternative may provide an effective solution for preventing listeria in organic meats.
Researchers at Clemson University identified two regions in the chicken genome associated with congenital deafness and spine deformities in humans. The Araucana breed's unique ear tufts and rumplessness provide a model for studying human genetic mutations.